Causes Of Dry Skin

Last Updated on November 1, 2022.

In order to treat the dry skin, it is necessary to understand potential causes of the problem.
Several factors may contribute to the dryness, but the problem will not be completely eliminated without treating the specific problem.

Quilling

Varying degrees of quill loss may also be associated with dry skin. Quill loss and dry skin may indicate a mite infestation or fungal infection but is not always the case.
A veterinarian can rule out mites by observing skin scrapings under a microscope and performing a simple fungal test.
It is very important to visit the vet and ascertain the reason for the dry skin if the problem persists or there is quill loss.
Our Quilling Article has more details on this subject.

Mites and Fleas

Refer to Mites and Other Ectoparasites for More Information

Fungus and Bacterial Infection

Your vet will need to do a skin scraping and will prescribe antibiotics if necessary.
Fungal spores are airborne and can be transferred easily throughout the environment.
Animals (and humans) with dry skin are more susceptible to fungal infections
Fungal infection: ringworm
Fungus (dermatophytosis). (Vet Med, 1999).

Type of Bedding

Bedding with fine particulates can dry out the skin.
Hardwood beddings and dusty beddings can also dry the skin.

Diet Deficiency

Certain dietary issues may also cause dry skin.

Allergens

Grass
Detergents
Fabric Softener
Carpet Cleaner

Bathing

Too frequent
Type of soap or shampoo
Not rinsing shampoos well can cause dry skin
Hot water can dry out skin

Low Humidity

Low humidity or dry air
Winter is the most popular time for dry skin.
Just like us, your hedgehog’s skin will get dry in the winter.
Adding some moisture to the air with a humidifier will help.
Humidifiers must be cleaned regularly, because they can harbor bacteria, which may cause a respiratory infection in your hedgehog.

Naturally Dry

Some hedgehogs are simply prone to naturally dry skin.
Good skin care will generally help dry skin not related to other sources of dryness.

Contributors: Gail Smith, Nate Miller, Shelly Fowler, Beach Bum Hedgies, Melissa Ramos